How to Use Hand Sanitizer
We all know that using soap and water is the preferred way to clean our hands. We should always use soap and water before eating, after using the restroom and when our hands are visibly dirty. A good scrub takes about 20 seconds. (Think: “Happy Birthday” song twice or create your own fun song sheet.)
Most parents don’t know that rubbing in a hand sanitizer should also take about 20 seconds. You need to use enough hand sanitizer to completely coat your hands and rub until dry. Hand sanitizer does not work until it is DRY!
Here are the steps:
Get a good blob of hand sanitizer in a cupped hand.
Rub palms together.
Rub palm to back of hand with interlaced fingers (both sides). I call these “making monster claws” with the kids I teach in the office.
Rub interlocked cupped hands. A “hand hug,” if you will.
Give both thumbs a squeeze.
Rub fingertips to palms.
And repeat the maneuvers until dry.
Yes, hand sanitizer is safe for even young infants and toddlers —but the same rules apply. You need to help your child with enough to get a good coating on the hands, but be sure to rub until try for best use. Remember young kids like to dig around in diaper bags, so be sure the sanitizer is sealed so it can’t be mistaken for something to drink.
Can’t find any hand sanitizer at the store? Here’s a recipe to make your own.
